Gural also pursuing Syracuse track

In addition to pursuing a lease to operate racing at the Meadowlands, The Saratogian (NY) newspaper website has reported that Jeff Gural is proceeding with plans to build a new track in Syracuse, NY. On Tuesday, the New York State Racing and Wagering Board approved a certificate approval for the project, tentatively called Syracuse Raceway.

The Saratogian story said Rochester (NY)-based Wilmorite Co. has discussed the racetrack project with Gural. It would also include a hotel.

The Saratogian report stated plans also call for a Westin Hotel in downtown Syracuse adjacent to the city’s convention center — the One Center.

"It’s a good idea," said Gural, who owns Vernon and Tioga Downs harness tracks. "Revenue from the racino would subsidize the hotel. It’s a way of getting both facilities built."